The Hermitage and Black Linn Falls
Dunkeld, Perthshire
The Hermitage at Dunkeld is a National Trust for Scotland site built around the River Braan gorge, where the river drops through Black Linn Falls and is viewed from Ossian’s Hall, a folly perched directly above the drop and restored to its original painted interior.
The giant Douglas firs on this walk are among the tallest trees in Britain, some standing at 50 to 60 metres. In strong winds, debris falls from them without warning. The car park and main path pass beneath them, which is worth bearing in mind before setting out on a stormy day.
Dogs need to be on leads along the gorge path and at the falls viewpoint. The drop is sheer and unguarded in places. Away from the gorge, off-lead is fine. Dogs can swim in the calmer sections of the Braan upstream from the falls. The water is cold and clear.
Red squirrels are present in the canopy. Keep dogs under close control in the woodland to reduce disturbance to them.
The Taybank Hotel in Dunkeld has a beer garden on the River Tay and welcomes dogs.
Frequently asked questions
Can my dog swim in the River Braan at the Hermitage?
Yes, in the calmer upstream sections away from the falls and gorge. The Braan is clear and cold and dogs enjoy swimming here. Do not allow your dog into the water near Black Linn Falls - the current is extremely fast, the gorge walls are sheer, and a dog swept into the falls section cannot be rescued safely. Keep dogs on leads along the gorge path and at Ossian’s Hall.
Are there red squirrels at the Hermitage?
Yes. Red squirrels are present in the woodland and can often be seen in the Douglas fir canopy. The Hermitage is within a red squirrel conservation area. Dogs are not subject to specific legal restrictions for squirrel protection here, but keeping dogs under close control reduces disturbance.
How tall are the Douglas firs at the Hermitage?
Among the tallest trees in Britain. The tallest specimen reached 63 metres (207 feet) before it was blown down in January 2017 storms. Other specimens stand at 50 to 60 metres - roughly the height of a 15-storey building. They were planted in the 19th century by the Dukes of Atholl from seeds imported from North America.
Who manages the Hermitage?
The core site including Ossian’s Hall and the riverside path along the Braan is managed by the National Trust for Scotland (free entry; car park charges apply). The Craigvinean woodland, used for longer route options, is managed by Forestry and Land Scotland. Both allow responsible access under the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.
Plan this walk with live weather and dog-safe route info